Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. STM Grace
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Hill People Gear Tarahumara
| Capacity | 16 L |
| Weight | 0.7 kg |
| Dimensions | 43×23×10 cm |
| Airline fit | 96% |
| Price | $175 |
Feature by feature
| Hill People Gear Tarahumara | Feature | STM Grace |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| 2 | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 4 |
| back | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| Y | Backpack | Y |
| removable | Hip Belt | N |
| Y | Sternum Strap | N |
| Inside | ||
| N | Laptop | 15in |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| N | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 2, side | Water Bottle Holder | N |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500d Cordura | 100% polyester |
Key differences between the Hill People Gear Tarahumara and STM Grace
- Compression straps: 2 on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; No on the STM Grace.
- Opening: Other on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; Top zip on the STM Grace.
- Passport pocket: Back on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; No on the STM Grace.
- Hip belt: Removable on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; No on the STM Grace.
- Sternum strap: Yes on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; No on the STM Grace.
- Laptop sleeve: No on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; 15in on the STM Grace.
- Main compartments: 2 on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; 1 on the STM Grace.
- Built-in organizer: No on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; Yes on the STM Grace.
- Water bottle pockets: 2, side on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; No on the STM Grace.
Both have: backpack straps, water resistant.
Which airlines take each bag as a carry-on
We checked both bags against the carry-on size limits of 189 airlines. 180 accept both. 1 accept only the Hill People Gear Tarahumara, and 0 accept only the STM Grace.
Only the Hill People Gear Tarahumara fits
Great Lakes Airlines.
Carry-on backpacks are versatile travel staples, combining portability with storage capacity. Today, let's talk about two backpacks: the Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the STM Grace. The Tarahumara packs a punch with 16 liters of capacity crammed into a relatively svelte 0.7-pound package. Its 44-inch height grants you significant vertical storage, and it's crafted from durable, 500D Cordura. Plus, it’s airplane-friendly, ticking the box for 100% airline compatibility. However, there's no specific section for your laptop.
The STM Grace offers 20 liters of capacity and weighs slightly less at 0.6 pounds. It has more of a horizontal spread with its 29-inch width. The Grace is designed with a 15-inch laptop sleeve and is made from 100% polyester. However, unlike the Tarahumara, this bag is less travel-friendly, only compatible with 84% of airlines.
Here's a quick comparison:
- Weight: Tarahumara (0.7 pounds) vs STM Grace (0.6 pounds)
- Dimensions: Tarahumara (44x24x10 inches) vs STM Grace (11x29x42 inches)
- Capacity: Tarahumara (16 liters) vs STM Grace (20 liters)
- Material: Tarahumara (500D Cordura) vs STM Grace (100% polyester)
- Laptop Compartment: Tarahumara (None) vs STM Grace (Fits 15" laptop)
- Airline Compatibility: Tarahumara (100% of airlines) vs STM Grace (84% of airlines)
Taking user reviews into account, Tarahumara shines for its durability and functionality. Reviewers testify to its impressive design, robust build, and remarkable carrying capacity, particularly given its compact exterior. It's ideal for day hiking and ensures easy access to your kit with a convenient center zip.
On the other hand, Grace charms users with its minimalistic aesthetic and practical design. The bright interior lining aids in locating items, and its internal organization is a godsend for the meticulous traveller. The inclusion of a designated laptop compartment ups its appeal. However, remember that Grace may not be the best choice if frequent flying is on your agenda. Both backpacks show a commitment to quality and user satisfaction, making them worthy contenders in the carry-on market. The decision ultimately boils down to your preferences and requirements.